MANCHESTER City marched into second spot in the Barclays Premiership after coming from behind to record a richly-deserved victory against Portsmouth.

John Viafara nodded the visitors in front against the run of play just after half-time but Claudio Reyna levelled before Andy Cole netted the winner four minutes later.

It took City's unbeaten run under Stuart Pearce to 12 matches and ensured only Chelsea are ahead of them going into the international break.

Unfortunately for Westerveld, his first mistake proved to be extremely costly as Barton's right-wing cross flashed past Cole and dropped at his feet.

It was a tough one for the Dutchman to take and he was unable to do it, instead flicking the ball towards Reyna, who instantly turned it home with an acrobatic volley.

Within four minutes, the hosts were in front. Cole still had plenty to do when Sinclair propelled Ben Thatcher's deep cross back into the Portsmouth area.

A magnificent first touch gave the former England striker his opportunity, then, after showing the composure of a man who has a Champions League winners' medal among his collection, Cole drove a shot towards goal which flicked off O'Brien and nestled in the corner.

It should have been three when Sinclair found Vassell in space just eight yards out but, unable to decide whether to cross or shoot, the former Villa man lofted the ball beyond the far post and Cole's despairing attempt to reach it.

Cole curled another effort wide just before the end, although Robert's woeful free-kick shortly afterwards ensured no damage was done.